Here Are 7 Black LGBTQ Beauty Influencers You Need To Know and Follow
For endless inspiration.
If I’ve learned nothing else about being a Black gay beauty editor, I’ve learned the importance of living authentically in my truth. Today brands have ramped up their messaging about being gender inclusive with expressive makeup and not categorizing it to just one gender group. Social media has also played an enormous part in providing everyone a platform to find their communities and show their raw selves — especially those of LGBTQ identities.
The power to hold space as an LGBTQ influencer has a significant responsibility as we are often not seen in these spaces by brands that externally raise flags committed to diversity and inclusion. However, these beauty enthusiasts are a few that took charge and ran with it. From dominating beauty campaigns to advocating for fundamental human rights, we’ve rounded up our favorite Black beauty influencers you need to know and follow.
Munroe Bergdorf
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Becoming the first transgender woman face of L’Oreal, Munroe Bergdorf has been making headlines on the beauty front. Her fearless voice and advocacy for the rights of under-represented communities recently landed her on the front cover of British Vogue.
The Plastic Boy
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Thee Plastic Boy, aka Gary Thompson, is one of the beauty boys that represents and calls beauty brands out on their lack of shade diversity for people of color. The UK-based makeup junkie provides easy and digestible tutorials on the best complexion products to use on the market.
Steph Mendoza
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Stephen first made headlines in 2016 by coining the term “Tom Girls, we exist” and has since been the glitter unicorn of the BLGBTQ world with their unique and effortless style.
Aaron Rose Philip
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Aaron Rose Philip has made waves as one of the first Black, disabled transgender models. Philips has worked with major beauty brands such as Marc Jacobs and Sephora.
Kellon Deryck
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Infamously known as Megan Thee Stallion resident hairstylist — there’s no further introduction needed.
Jacinda
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The originator of the “uni-liner” look that recently stormed Instagram, Jacinda is known for unexpected color stories and head-turning liner moments and will make you reconsider your entire makeup bag.
Myla
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Myla is one of the UK’s most referenced graphic eyeliner looks influencers. The artist paints her liner intricately and abstractly with floral designs and other fun color schemes. Her radiant, melanin-filled skin features vibrant hues of editorial-styled makeup.
